Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Head gasket replacement

[hensign]

Ok my head gasket has been slowly bleeding for about 6 months(1 quart every 500 miles). I am gonna do it, but just wanted to ask if anybody knows any tricks. This looks fairly straitforward and I am a pretty experienced auto tech with many internal engine repairs under my belt. I used the forum instructions for injector replacement when I did them and they saved quite a bit of time over what Alldata instructed to disassemble.



Thanks for any info

Hadley

 

[SnoKing]

You sure is not a cracked 53 block? SNOKING

 

[hensign]

Its not nice to suggest ill of others... ... ... . No no cracks, I have gotten a pretty good look and the problem area is right at the seam between the block and head. Several others who have looked suggested I retorque the head but I want it fixed right. I got this one with 180k on it and it looked like it had never had a coolant service so a rotten head gasket is believable.

 

[RacinDuallie]

Hey- where in central Jersey are you? I'm in Morris County. Are you gonna use studs or you getting new bolts? Which gasket you gonna use truck or marine?

It's a pretty straightforward job... ... ... .

 

[Jetpilot]

Don't retorque the head that should only be done when using studs..... As for tricks, its really pretty straight forward just take your time. It really helps if you have a hoist as the head weighs over 200 lbs. I recommend using a 12v marine gasket that has been modified for the 24v, theyare available in stock, . 010, and . 020 thickness'. You might also consider replacing the OEM head bolts with studs, its not necessary but will add to reliability due to better clamping force.



Doug

 

[PC12Driver]

I bought a Dodge service manual from Geno's when I did mine (CD Rom version). It was nice to have the step-by-step and all the torque specs in hand.

 

[hensign]

I am using all stock stuff new bolts and oem gasket. I live in South Plainfield and am gonna do it at my shop in Scotch Plains. I will have a hoist available I suspected the head will be too heavy to lift out of there. I have the specs in ALLDATA as well as instructions. Thanks for the help I will be tearing in next week.

Hadley

 

[justinp20012500]

There are two rubber plugs under the cowl. You must remove these in order to get the back push rods out. THEY ARE A PITA.



Do not remove the manifold and tubo, just disconnect the oil lines and exhaust pipe. You can lift it out assembled.